Preparing for the Elf on a Shelf

Posted on November 26, 2017

A couple of years ago we started the Elf on a Shelf tradition in our house. I know not everyone likes the idea of Elf on a Shelf but I think it’s fun and so do my children. Last year was the first year I managed to move him every day of Advent and you can see a round up of what the Elf got up to in this post.

As well as our Elf we have the book he came with, An Elf Story. I also bought a little elf door to explain how he arrived in our house.

Preparing for the Elf on a Shelf

This year I picked up a few more things and have been busy planning an activity for every day – I find this helps when I suddenly remember I need to move him at half past eleven at night. I found loads of inspiration on Pinterest and even have a board of Elf on the Shelf ideas for inspiration.

Most of the Elf items I found in the Pound Shop, such as this cute little door which is an improvement on last years.

A little post book and Official Elf Reports to complete

Elf Mail in a bottle

Scratch off Christmas Countdown Good Behaviour Calendar. I got two of these, one for each child, as they love a reward chart. I think this makes a fun Christmas countdown and should ensure good behaviour in the run up to Christmas.

I love this Elf Surveillance camera which was only a pound. It has a battery in it so it looks like it’s on, recording the children!

The only thing I’m not sure about is this Baby Elf. I don’t think that the Elf on the Shelf looks too scary but the Elf Baby looks a bit strange. My 5 year old loves dolls but I’m not sure if this is pushing it a bit too far.

I also have some elf bunting, a little swing and some stickers to decorate our house. I feel ready for the 1st of December!

About Me

I'm Jenny. London mum of two not-so-little people (born 2010 and 2011) and an adorable Bichon Frise. Award-winning craft and family lifestyle blogger.
I started writing my creative lifestyle blog in 2005 and love to share our crafts and activities. Find out more about us, out latest crafts for kids and adults , and be inspired by our free printables for kids.
Contact me: jenny@the-gingerbread-house.co.uk